The railways help to keep the UK running and play a key role in the day-to-day life of the country. As well as helping people get from A to B, the industry also employs thousands of people in a wide range of varied roles. 

Whether it's customer service or high-level engineering positions, rail can represent an interesting and rewarding career path. Not quite sure if a rail job would be for you? Here are five reasons why working in the sector is worthwhile.

Strong demand
Every single day, millions of people across the UK catch a train and for many of these individuals being able to do so ​is vital to the way they live their life. With the government keen to reduce pollution and harmful emissions, it's likely even more people will be encouraged to take the train over the next few years.

As rail remains so important, there's a strong chance demand for skilled staff to work in the sector will be high for the foreseeable future, which is good news for anyone hoping to find a job in the industry.

A bright future 
Another good reason to work in rail is that it's an industry that is going places. One of the biggest developments in the sector's long history will be getting underway in the next few years, as the High Speed 2 (HS2) project will connect London to Birmingham and then Manchester and Leeds via a new line that will cut journey times and is predicted to have a big impact on the UK economy. 

Some 40,000 jobs are expected to be created in the first stage of the project alone and it is sure to support a number of new roles once complete. In addition to HS2, the UK's rail infrastructure will continue to be improved in the coming years and skilled professionals will be needed to make this happen.

See the country 
One of the major perks of many rail jobs is the fact they allow you to travel the country, and possibly beyond, as part of your work. Rail services run the length and breadth of the UK and people who are employed on the trains get a chance to see the nation's different towns and cities free of charge. Those lucky enough to work on the Eurostar may also get the opportunity to see France and Belgium while on the job.

A range of employers 
Since the UK's railways were re-privatised back in the 1990s, a number of commercial operators have emerged that offer employment opportunities in the sector. At present, there are 28 companies running train services in the country, including the likes of CrossCountry Trains, Virgin Trains and London Midland. There is also Network Rail, which oversees the industry and is responsible for ensuring trains arrive on time, as well as the maintenance of the rail infrastructure. 

Variety
Another plus of working in rail is the sheer variety the industry has to offer. There a wide number of roles available in the sector, ranging from customer service and train drivers to engineers and signallers. This means there is a greater chance of finding a position that suits your skillset and background. According to the StageCoach Group, there are currently 190,000 people employed in rail and due to the industry's variety there is a good chance you have the skills and experience to become one of them.

Think it might be time for a career change? Head to our vacancies page and see what jobs we currently have on offer.